From Pro Football to Identity Crisis: How Pelé Found Himself Again
From Restore To Explore by The Foot Collective
October 21, 2025 · 1h 23m · Season 5
About this episode
Pelé Zachariah shares his journey from pro footballer to fitness coach, discussing identity, movement, and rediscovery of purpose.
In this episode of the Restore to Explore podcast, Mac chats with Pelé Zachariah , a former pro footballer turned fitness coach and founder of Robots gym in London. Pelé opens up about his journey from elite soccer in Barcelona to injury, identity crisis, drug use, and eventual rediscovery of purpose through movement, mindset, and play. Together, they explore the powerful relationship between play, balance, foot health, and high performance, especially for men navigating fitness, ego, and burnout. From barefoot training and breathwork to redefining masculinity and movement, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone who wants to move better, live longer, and reconnect with joy. Follow on Pelé Instagram here. Checkout Rowbots gym here. Discover your balance score in less than 10 minutes and get tailored training recommendations by completing our brand new Foot Health Assessment. Helpful Links & Discounts: ⬇️ If you want to learn more about our ultimate 12-week 'Foot Restoration Program' click here and use code 'R2E10' for 10% off : Foot Restoration Program (Our most effective online foot health solution) Shop TFC tools…
People in this episode
Host: Mac
Guest: Pelé Zachariah
Topics covered
- identity crisis
- fitness coaching
- movement
- masculinity
- foot health
- high performance
Keywords
- pro football
- identity crisis
- fitness
- movement
- breathwork
- masculinity
- foot health
- high performance
Sponsors
Vivobarefoot
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Robots gym, The Foot Collective
Places: London, Barcelona
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